My husband, as a historian of astronomy, is interested in astrological readings so during our trip to India we sought out "readers." In Varanasi, despite husband's insistence he didn't want a palm reading, the "astrologer" started with a palm reading with the promise that he would provide a reading based on birth information the next morning. He delivered a standardized computer printout with wrong dates, locations etc. My husband had provided very detailed information but it was all for naught. The upshot of the hour with the first astrologer is that my husband has "a very colorful brain." I did video the hour long encounter so it's a fun remembrance of the trip.

The second astrologer was at the Rambagh palace in Jaipur. He took the birth info and delivered some nonsensical computer printout that bore no relation to the birth info. The third astrologer had a nice office in the fort in Jodhpur. He wanted the birth info and said he would email his predictions. He didn't take any payment in advance so we weren't disappointed when nothing arrived. But then it's only been five years, not much time in the world of astrologers. Given the dismal showings by the first three astrologers my husband abandoned further investigation. He has, however, developed a tea aversion since one of the horoscopes said he would die drinking a cup of tea.

We had our palms read in Varanasi by our guide. Although he's also an astrologer, he said he preferred palm reading and treated us each to a substantial session for no extra charge. He had some astute insights, and gave us very specific instructions, which of course I cannot share, but at some point will let you know whether his predictions were accurate.

Not a word about the color of our brains, and luckily no tea warnings - that would have been horrendous for us!

Simply too funny, Marija! Not one, not two, but three astrologers! Fortunately you have the video of the first "reading" which surely brings back the amusement of the experience when you watch it. It sounds as though you took it all in stride and didn't frett when the results were less than professional.

Thank you to you both for your responses. I suppose astrologers are a dime a dozen in India, or perhaps nearly everyone knows an astrolger/guide/guest house/taxi/jem dealer/carpet seller/artist/etc. so the tourist is always well taken care of. Here's my own prediction: Buyer beware and don't expect too much but enjoy the fun. Yes, I'm still going to see what my future holds. Looking forward to February!